"Word became flesh". Logis is a Greek term that we translate as "word" in English, but is one of those words that doesn't adequately translate into an English word. It is often used for the concept that we translate as "reason", the highest of Greek virtues. Reason became flesh. That's a little different. I wonder why the word isn't translated as reason. That's a question I will have to look into some more. Isn't Bible study fascinating?
As you read John, notice the themes of "light".
What you might also notice is there is no baptism scene in this Gospel. John leaves it out. This is called "high Christology". Since Jesus is divine from the outset, a baptism seemed out of place. In the book of Mattthew, John the Baptist protests baptizing Jesus (Matt. 3:13-15). In this story, John sees the dove descend, but doesn't actually tell about a baptism.
Read deeply - and enjoy. I am going to go watch the Robbie Seay band assist with worship.
i read the first three chapters poolside last night. it begins with the same three words Genesis does.
ReplyDeletei thought it was interesting that Jesus is described as the Word, as the creator, as containing life, and as light. We then learn that he gave us grace and truth and revealed the Father. All that just in the first chapter.
We don't get to historical details until verse 19. Such a change from the other three Gospels.
There sure is a lot of debate on the choice of the English "word" for the greek term logos. Some say it is "meaning", or "reason", and others say it is "a story". Whatever John meant, I think he is trying to say that Jesus is a big deal. The rest of John 1 and 2 seems to be John proving that Jesus is the real deal. My favorite, and the clearest message for me, is John 1:17.
ReplyDeleteMy take on the light reference is that Jesus illuminates the human condition.
Grace and truth came through JC, that is awesome to me. I agree with Bill.
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